76% of Americans say a smile makes the first impression. While a smile is one of the first things noticed, yellow teeth can take away from that impression. Your teeth are one of the most noticeable features on the face and it may be normal for them to be a bit stained.
Has your dentist noticed yellow spots on your teeth? It can be a sign of cavities that have not been treated. This could lead to root canals and tooth extractions. The severity of the yellowing can vary from extreme to minor, but it’s important to bring it up with your dentist.
Let’s take a look at the common causes of yellow spots on teeth in more detail. Let’s explore!
Contents
Poor Dental Hygiene
Poor dental hygiene is one of the most common causes of yellow spots on teeth. If plaque and tartar are not removed regularly, they will eventually cause the teeth to be yellow.
If yellow spots are not removed, they can eventually cause tooth decay and gum disease. Brushing and flossing habits can fewer teeth discoloration.
Also, the whitening teeth process is a good option to get rid of the yellow stains on teeth. This may improve your oral health and overall well-being.
Certain Medications
Some medications can actually change the color of teeth, making them appear more yellow. Fluorosis is caused by exposure to too much fluoride during the formative years of tooth development. It can cause the teeth to become discolored, mottled, pitted and brittle.
These include tetracycline, doxycycline, and minocycline, which are antibiotics used for bacterial infections. In some cases, the spots may be due to other underlying medical conditions such as jaundice or a more serious condition such as liver disease.
Non-Stop Smoking
Nicotine, tar, and other chemicals in cigarettes and tobacco are responsible for staining teeth and causing them to yellow. Smoking also decreases the production of saliva, which can lead to yellowing.
In addition, smoking cigarettes can also lead to gum disease that causes teeth to yellow. Quitting smoking is the best way to avoid yellow teeth.
Eating High in Chromogens
Chromogens are compounds that can produce color, and they’re found in many foods and drinks, when they build up on teeth they can cause staining or discoloration. Foods that are high in chromogens include coffee, tea, red wine, and dark fruits and vegetables.
If you notice yellow spots on your teeth, you may want to cut back on these foods and drinks. You can also talk to your dentist about ways to reduce staining.
Getting Older
As we get older, our teeth become more susceptible to staining and discoloration. This is because the enamel on our teeth starts to thin out, exposing the underlying tooth color.
Understanding the Causes of Yellow Spots on Teeth
Yellow spots on teeth could be due to a number of different factors. To help address the issue, make sure you’re brushing and flossing regularly, and consider using whitening toothpaste.
You may also want to see your dentist to rule out any underlying dental problems. Be sure to get your teeth checked out so you can keep your smile looking its best.
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